Gen-1 Creta owner considers buying 2024 model: Test drive observations

The Seltos is a possible contender, but it does not have NA IVT on its top trim

BHPian Col Mehta recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

SX(O) IVT Test Drive Experience:

Engine and Gearbox Performance - Exceptionally smooth, refined, and good to drive. This has always been one of the positives of this engine-gearbox combo. The car is just ever so easy to drive in city traffic conditions. With no lags, no jerks, no drama, and with m-o-r-e than enough power to pot around all day alone, this car excels in urban settings. If you are mostly going to drive within city limits with occasional highway runs and want all the latest bells and whistles, then look no beyond this car.

Steering Response - The steering feels noticeably lighter than the outgoing model that we drive (2021 SXO IVT). It's a welcome change as it does not feel unnecessarily heavy at parking and slow speeds. The steering response on the previous model has vague feedback from the steering. Not always, but it feels like it has its own mind at times. This we did not feel in the FL model. The steering feedback remained consistent and a tad lighter which we liked.

Ride Quality - One word - Plush! Just the right balance really - not too soft, not too stiff either. On slow speeds, it does not get unsettled while going through potholes/uneven surfaces. At higher speeds, it almost glides through everything without making the passengers uncomfortable. All this when the TPMS showed 40+ on all four tyres!

Interiors - Well this is where this car disappoints. While the overall look and feel of the interiors are satisfactory, that ancient-looking HVAC system and the cheap glossy plastic on the centre console (which still makes creaking noise by the way) take away all the premiumness. The AT centre console is amazing to look at (if you overlook that low-grade plastic), but we are very disappointed with Hyundai for not addressing the plastic quality in this FL. Despite having received consumer feedback and ample time to rectify the issue, they chose not to. Another concern for us is the all-grey interior theme which we did not like, particularly on bright sunny days when abundant sunlight enters the cabin, accentuating the blandness. Hyundai should have retained black elements to elevate the ambiance.

Built Quality - The outgoing model is not known for its built quality and feels lighter than the first-gen model (we have both generations within our family). This one, interestingly though, felt better! The doors are heavier, and the overall feel is superior. I hope Hyundai sends it for the crash test and comes back with 5 stars!

So, did we like it to replace our first gen Creta? - Honestly don't know. While we LOVE the 1.5 NA IVT combo, perfectly suited to our needs, and the ride quality and steering response are just how we like them, the underwhelming interior feel is what killing us. Thinking about other options in the segment, there is none like the Creta. The Seltos is a possible contender, but it does not have NA IVT on its top trim plus those so-called "sporty" all-black claustrophobic interiors are a no-go! Perhaps the Xline could be an option with its captivating sage green theme, but then it also comes with its own set of maintenance challenges. Why does it have to be so complex, KIA?

We are keeping our booking for now (yes, we booked it last month), but aren't entirely convinced.

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